Eastern and Central Europe (Eyewitness Travel Guides)

252 CENTRAL EASTREN EUROPE

For hotels and restaurants in this region see pp288–91 and pp292–5

Old-New Synagogue a

Staronová synagóga

Built around 1270, this is the oldest
synagogue in Europe and one of the
earliest Gothic buildings in Prague. The
synagogue has survived fires, the slum
clearances of the 19th century and many
Jewish pogroms. Residents of the Jewish
Quarter have often had to seek refuge
within its walls and it is still the religious
centre for Prague’s Jews. It was originally
called the New Synagogue until another
synagogue, which was later destroyed,
was built nearby.

Right-hand

Nave

The glow from

the chandeliers

provides light

for worshippers,

who sit in the

seats lining

the walls.

Fourteenth-

century step ped

brick gable

. Jewish Standard
The historic banner of Prague’s
Jews is decorated with a Star
of David, within which is
depicted the hat that had
to be worn by Jews
in the 14th century.
. Five-rib Vaulting
Two massive octagonal
pillars inside the hall
support the five-rib
vaults: one rib was added
to the traditional four ribs.

These windows

formed part of the

18th-century

extensions built to

allow women a

view of the service.

The cantor’s

platform (bima) is

surrounded by a

Gothic wrought-iron grille.

Entrance

Entrance Portal

The tympanum above

the door in the south

vestibule is decorated with

bunches of grapes and

vine leaves.

Candlestick holder